Rolling eggs down the Penshaw hill - and more memories

Chris Cordner

Readers have shared their memories of the much-loved Penshaw Monument.

Thousands of people read an Echo feature on the landmark which included an explanation on how it came into existence in the first place.

Upper level of Penshaw Monument.

We’re indebted to Philip Curtis of the Sunderland Antiquarian Society for the article explaining that the monument was erected in 1844 in memory of John George Lambton, the 1st Earl of Durham.

The Earl was well-loved by his workers. He established the Lambton Colliery Association to help pitmen in old age, sickness and infirmity.

Philip’s article prompted more than 48,000 people to view it on Facebook with 270 likes.

Readers also shared their own thoughts, including some sharing childhood memories of rolling eggs down the hill at Easter. Here are your contributions;

Many wonderful memories my two brothers built model aircraft they took hours of making out of bolsor wood and paper. Some as long as 5ft. Wing span take them up the hill and many times they would crash land , back home they would come and rebuild them time and time again.

Loretta Houseman

Loretta Houseman “We visited yesterday beautiful day fantastic views. As I live in Yorkshire travelling home it’s my landmark.

“Many wonderful memories my two brothers built model aircraft they took hours of making out of bolsor wood and paper. Some as long as 5ft. Wing span take them up the hill and many times they would crash land , back home they would come and rebuild them time and time again. Easter eggs rolling too.”

Jane Swinhoe “I thought it was built for the miners. I found this really interesting.”

Steve Hall “Missed out the fact that it was never completed, as the fence around the top is missing, and the staircase is closed to the public - supposed to be some fantastic views from the top.”

Penshaw Monument in 1966.

Hazel Gorman “Used to roll egg down the bank with kids a long time ago”

Jennifer Kelley “Yes I did as well Hazel Gorman, every Easter with new socks,sandals & bolero haha good memories.”

Esther Bruce “Yes my mother’s boyfriend had keys for to go on the top which I did numerous times as a child and I feel privileged that I did.”